Ankara's Architecture: Where Modern Kızılay Meets Historic Ulus Charm

Ankara might be Turkey’s political centre, but for the curious traveller, it’s an open-air museum of architectural beauty. This capital city is where bold architecture meets big history, and Kızılay and Ulus are at the heart of it all. 

Mercure Ankara Kızılay is the perfect base for your visit, where you can relax in modern comfort with a local touch. Its onsite restaurant, fitness centre, and café make it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its central location and city views from your room, Mercure Ankara Kızılay enhances your stay.

If you only have a few days to explore the many places to visit in Ankara, you’ll find most attractions and architectural gems within walking distance of the Ulus historic quarter and the modern hub of Kızılay. 

To help you soak it all in, we’ve curated a list of must-see Ankara architecture. All that’s left for you to do is to pack your suitcase, bring your curiosity, and get ready to walk a lot!

Walking through Kızılay, you really get a sense of how much Ankara has evolved. One moment, you’ll spot a sleek, shiny office building; the next, you might be enjoying a cup of Turkish coffee in a cosy corner café, overlooking a weathered 1950s apartment building. This lively neighbourhood is the energetic heart of the city, buzzing with restaurants, shops, and some of the best places to visit in Ankara.

Kızılay is full of character, with its narrow old alleyways sitting alongside modern structures. You’ll also notice how some newer buildings reflect global design trends, adding fresh energy to the scene. There’s no single architectural style here, just a dynamic blend of Ottoman-era touches, mid-century modernism, and contemporary influences. That mix of old and new is exactly what makes Kızılay so special.

Located in the heart of Kızılay, the Kocatepe Mosque dominates Ankara’s skyline from several vantage points with its towering minarets and grey dome. Although it was completed in 1987, the mosque is a perfect example of modern Ankara architecture that draws from classical Ottoman design. As the largest mosque in Ankara, it’s a defining feature of the city’s architectural and spiritual identity.

The mosque is still a lively place of worship, so try to visit outside prayer times to avoid interruptions. It's closed to tourists on Friday for the weekly prayer. Remember to dress modestly; women should cover their heads and everyone should wear clothes that cover the arms, shoulders, and knees. Don’t forget to take off your shoes before entering. Also, photography is fine. Just try to avoid snapping people while they pray to respect their moment of worship. With that sorted, you’re ready to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this architectural gem.

Just a 15-minute drive from Kızılay, this is where the Turkish Republic found its voice... and it's speaking in clean lines and monumental design.

History buffs, take note: the Assembly includes two museums.

The Independence War Museum – also known as the First Assembly Building – was the original seat of parliament from 1920 to 1924. Then there’s the Republic Museum, which started life as the Republican People's Party headquarters before becoming the Second Assembly Building in 1924. It served as the heart of Turkish politics until 1960. 

Welcome to the Roman Baths, an unexpected detour from the Turkish Republic into the ancient world.

Built in the 3rd century, the site houses distinct bath chambers still visible amongst scattered columns and timeworn stones. Part archaeological site, part open-air gallery, it’s a great experience off the beaten path.

Located in the old district of Ulus near Ankara Castle (we’ll get to that beauty next), Aslanhane Mosque is a prime example of early Anatolian Seljuk design. This mosque was built in the 13th century, making it one of the oldest religious buildings in the city, and arguably the country.

Its sturdy stone base and carved wooden columns highlight a unique chapter of Ankara architecture rarely seen in modern structures. The mosque’s calm simplicity adds to its appeal, offering a contemplative space that contrasts with the city’s busy streets. Inside, soft light shines from delicate chandeliers, and outside, a touch of colour comes from the blue tiles on its facade. When you visit, we recommend keeping in mind the same travel etiquette observed for Kocatepe Mosque. 

Like most mosques, the calligraphy found in Aslanhane features verses from the Quran, especially those that emphasise the greatness of God (Allah). The inscriptions also include messages of peace and blessings to the Prophet Mohamed (Peace be Upon Him) and his companions. 

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, the Ankara Castle offers some of the best views of the city. The old fortress is said to be originally built by the Phrygians and later expanded by the Galatians, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Its rich history is a patchwork of stonework that reflects Ankara’s diverse past.

As you walk along its sturdy walls and climb its towers, you'll pass traditional houses, artisan shops, and narrow cobbled paths that are characteristic of the Ulus quarter, where the castle is located. The castle is one of the most atmospheric places to visit in Ankara and a must-see for anyone exploring the city’s architectural evolution.

There’s something poetic about wandering around this ancient temple, where history isn’t kept behind glass windows like in museums, but is embedded in the landscape itself. The Temple of Augustus is another remarkable link to the city’s Roman past.

Built in the 1st century BCE, it later became famous for bearing carvings of the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, a first-person inscription outlining the life and accomplishments of Emperor Augustus. Today, only fragments of the structure remain, but it's still one of the most historically significant places to visit in Ankara.

Stretching through the city and touching Kızılay, Ataturk Boulevard is framed by impressive government buildings, office towers, and cultural institutions.

Built in the 1930s as part of the city’s big makeover, it’s lined with clean-cut modernist buildings that show off Ankara's architectural shift toward a new, forward-looking identity. 

Last, but most definitely not least, this isn’t just the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk – it’s a powerful symbol of modern-day Ankara architecture.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking Ankara, this grand structure blends sleek lines of modernism with nods to ancient Anatolian and Roman architecture. Massive columns, wide ceremonial plazas, and clean symmetry give it a quiet authority.

Meanwhile, details, like bold lion statues and intricate stone carvings, add an extra layer of national pride. Whether you're an architecture buff or just curious, visiting Anıtkabir feels like connecting with the soul of the Turkish republic.

To truly appreciate Ankara’s architectural treasures, plan to stay for three to four days. But if you're short on time, even one day can go a long way – just stay central to explore Ankara architecture and key places to visit. Kızılay and Ulus, which are only about a 20-minute walk apart, put you close to the city’s highlights, from sleek government buildings to castles and old mosques. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is ideal for exploring on foot.

As you wander, be mindful of local customs. Modest clothing and respectful behaviour are especially important in sacred or residential areas. While English is widely spoken in tourist-friendly spots, learning a few Turkish words like “Merhaba” (hello) or “Teşekkür ederim” (thank you) can go a long way. You might even score a few insider tips from locals. With that, you’re all set to soak in the beauty and rich history that Ankara has to offer.